Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based leave-in scalp serum from The Ordinary formulated with six clinically-studied peptide and botanical technologies — REDENSYL™, Procapil™, CAPIXYL™, BAICAPIL™, AnaGain™, and High-Solubility Caffeine — designed to support thicker, denser, fuller-looking hair with visible results in 8–12 weeks of daily use.
6 Active Technologies
Combines REDENSYL™, Procapil™, CAPIXYL™, BAICAPIL™, AnaGain™, and 1% net Caffeine in one formula.
Texture & feel
SENSORY6 Active Technologies
Combines REDENSYL™, Procapil™, CAPIXYL™, BAICAPIL™, AnaGain™, and 1% net Caffeine in one formula.
Plant-Based Extracts
Features pea sprout, red clover, larch wood, green tea, baikal skullcap, wheat and soybean germ extracts.
Ultra-Lightweight Base
Water-based, silicone-free formula absorbs quickly without greasy residue or product buildup.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
Certified vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and free of sulfates, silicones, parabens and mineral oil.
Clinical at Drugstore Price
Delivers premium hair-tech actives at a fraction of the cost of prestige hair-loss serums.
Shop TODAY Award Winner
Named Best Hair Serum for Thinning Hair in the 2024 Shop TODAY Beauty Awards.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 1% caffeine and multiple peptides. While topical scalp absorption is minimal, always consult your OB-GYN before use during pregnancy or while nursing.
Water-based, oil-free, and ester-free. No fatty acids or polysorbate 80 that feed malassezia yeast on the scalp.
Rated 0/5 — silicone-free, oil-free formula that will not clog follicles or forehead pores along the hairline.
Safe to use alongside minoxidil, rosemary oil, scalp sunscreen and most shampoos. Space 20 minutes apart from direct acids.
Do not apply to irritated, cut, or actively inflamed scalp. Contains Phenoxyethanol and Lactic Acid which may sting on broken skin.
The Ordinary recommends a 24-hour patch test behind the ear before first full-scalp application.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHigh-Solubility Caffeine 1%Proven
A soluble form of caffeine that penetrates the scalp to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme linked to hormone-driven hair thinning.
- Study: A 2017 comparative trial found a 0.2% caffeine topical liquid performed non-inferior to 5% minoxidil in men with androgenetic alopecia.
- Mechanism: Stimulates hair shaft elongation in vitro and extends the anagen (growth) phase of follicles.
Procapil™ (Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1 + Apigenin + Oleanolic Acid) 3%Proven
A patented Sederma complex combining biotin-linked peptide with apple and olive-leaf flavonoids to strengthen hair anchoring and fight follicle aging.
- Manufacturer data: Showed promotion of hair bulb keratinocyte proliferation and synthesis of laminin-5 and collagen IV, improving follicle anchoring in vitro.
- Clinical: 58% of users reported reduced hair loss after 4 months of daily use in Sederma's in-vivo study.
REDENSYL™ Complex (Larix + Camellia Sinensis + Glycine + Zinc) 3%Proven
A Givaudan-patented complex targeting outer root sheath stem cells to reactivate the hair cycle from the telogen (resting) phase.
- Clinical trial: Givaudan's 84-day study on 26 men showed 9% increase in hair density and 17% reduction in hair loss versus placebo.
- Comparison: Manufacturer data suggests 2x efficacy versus minoxidil at stimulating dormant follicles in vitro.
CAPIXYL™ (Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3 + Red Clover Extract) 5%Proven
A Lucas Meyer biomimetic peptide paired with Trifolium Pratense to reduce scalp inflammation and inhibit DHT-linked thinning.
- Clinical study: 4-month trial showed 13% increase in hair density and 4x better results than 5% minoxidil per manufacturer data.
- Mechanism: Red clover isoflavones inhibit 5-alpha-reductase while the tetrapeptide stimulates extracellular matrix proteins.
BAICAPIL™ (Baikal Skullcap + Wheat & Soy Sprout Extracts) 4%Promising
A Provital plant-based complex that targets multiple phases of the hair cycle to boost density and reduce shedding.
- Manufacturer trial: 3-month study reported 121% increase in density of new hair compared to placebo.
- Action: Extends anagen, shortens telogen, and shields follicles from oxidative stress.
AnaGain™ (Pisum Sativum / Pea Sprout Extract) 4%Promising
A Mibelle Biochemistry pea-sprout extract rich in phytochemicals that reactivate dermal papilla signaling to awaken resting follicles.
- 2014 Mibelle trial: 3-month scalp-applied study showed an improved anagen-to-telogen ratio and more hairs in the active growth phase.
- 2020 research: Confirmed pea sprout extract improves density and reduces shedding in participants with mild to moderate thinning.
36 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Caffeine, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-3, Larix Europaea Wood Extract, Pisum Sativum Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Triticum Vulgare Germ Extract, Glycine Soja Germ Extract, Trifolium Pratense Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Apigenin, Oleanolic Acid, Arginine, Glycine, Calcium Gluconate, Zinc Chloride, Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, Dextran, Maltodextrin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Xanthan Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polysorbate 20, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Metabisulfite, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEThis is a leave-in treatment — do NOT rinse out. Best applied to a clean, dry or slightly damp scalp at bedtime. Use once daily and expect visible results after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
How to use
HOW TO USEWash & Fully Dry Your Scalp
Shampoo as usual and towel-dry. The serum performs best on a clean, dry or just-damp scalp so actives can penetrate without dilution.
Apply a Few Drops Directly to Scalp
Section hair and use the dropper to apply 6–10 drops directly onto thinning areas — crown, temples, or hairline.
Massage for 30–60 Seconds
Use fingertips or a silicone scalp brush to massage the serum in. This boosts circulation and helps the peptides reach the follicle.
Leave In Overnight
Do not rinse. Allow it to absorb fully. Use once daily, preferably before bed, for a minimum of 3 months to assess results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You notice mild to moderate thinning, shedding, or a widening part
- You want a drug-free, minoxidil-free first-line scalp treatment
- You have fine or thinning hair and hate greasy oils
- Your lifestyle includes stress, postpartum, or seasonal shedding
- You are vegan, cruelty-free, or fragrance-sensitive
- You want prestige actives at a drugstore price
Consider alternatives if:
- You have advanced or genetic male/female pattern baldness (consider minoxidil/finasteride)
- You expect dramatic regrowth in under 8 weeks
- You have an actively irritated, flaky, or broken scalp
- You are pregnant or nursing and have not consulted your doctor
- You wash your hair less than twice a week (buildup risk)
- You want a styling or leave-in conditioner for the lengths
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESWatery, silicone-free formula absorbs in under a minute without adding grease. Caffeine also helps regulate sebum at the follicle.
Glycerin and propanediol add mild hydration, but very dry or flaky scalps may benefit from pairing with a hydrating scalp oil on off-nights.
Balanced, non-stripping formula works well across oilier crowns and drier temples without overloading either zone.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free, but contains Phenoxyethanol and Lactic Acid. Patch test 24 hours before full use if you react easily.
0/5 comedogenic rating, oil-free, and malassezia-safe (no fatty acids or esters). Safe for forehead and hairline bumps.
Does not directly treat dandruff. Pair with a ketoconazole or zinc-pyrithione shampoo for flaking; use this serum on treated, clear scalp only.
Results timeline
MONTH 4–6Scalp Feels Calmer & Cleaner
Hydration improves, itch and tightness reduce. No visible hair change yet — this phase is about scalp conditioning and absorption adjustment.
72% noticedReduced Shedding in the Shower
Users typically report less hair loss during washing and brushing as AnaGain and Procapil extend the anagen (growth) phase.
64% noticedNew Baby Hairs & Denser Part Line
Short new hairs begin emerging along the hairline and crown. The part line appears visibly narrower. This is the most-cited milestone in long-term user reviews.
58% noticedOverall Fuller, Thicker Appearance
Matured regrowth thickens the hair mass. Hair feels stronger, less brittle, and ponytails appear noticeably denser.
49% noticedRatings by platform
42K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Six clinically-studied peptide technologies in one affordable bottle
- Ultra-lightweight, water-based — zero greasy residue
- Fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free, silicone-free
- Noticeable reduction in shedding within 4–6 weeks for many users
- Drugstore price point versus $40–$90 prestige competitors
- Shop TODAY Beauty Award Winner 2024 for thinning hair
Criticized
- Requires 3+ months of daily consistency to assess efficacy
- Not effective for advanced androgenetic alopecia on its own
- Dropper can be messy and hard to target on the scalp
- May cause buildup if hair is washed infrequently
- Pregnancy safety unclear due to caffeine and peptide complexes
- Individual peptide concentrations not disclosed by the brand
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHighest ingredient overlap — contains the same five peptide complexes at a disclosed total 18% active concentration. Slightly heavier texture but equal clinical rationale at a lower price per ml.
Overlaps on caffeine, biotin, copper tripeptide, and green tea extract, but adds saw palmetto for DHT blocking. Slightly thicker texture and a mild herbal scent.
A stripped-down alternative focused on caffeine plus redensyl-style activators. Fewer peptide complexes but easier to layer and ideal if you find the Ordinary formula too active.
Same brand but a pure hydration / scalp barrier serum — no peptides. Good companion product on non-active nights rather than a direct swap for density.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Nutrafol Growth Activator Serum
Hims Thick Fix Shampoo + Serum Kit
Kérastase Genesis Serum Anti-Chute
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is approximately 24 months from manufacture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can extend potency of peptides.
Amber glass bottle with calibrated glass dropper — shields light-sensitive peptides. Fully recyclable.
Yes — 60 ml bottle is under the 100 ml TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The formula contains 1% caffeine and multiple peptide complexes that have not been specifically tested in pregnancy. Scalp absorption is generally low, but there is no conclusive safety data for pregnant or nursing users. Always consult your OB-GYN before continuing or starting use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Yes. The formula is water-based and oil-free, with no fatty acids, esters above C5, or polysorbate 80 — the main triggers for malassezia overgrowth. It is a good choice for those with fungal acne on the forehead, temples, or hairline.
Since this is a scalp product, most face-focused actives are unaffected. However, The Ordinary specifically warns against layering this serum with direct acids, pure vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), salicylic acid, and their Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3% serum on the same area, as it may cause irritation. Space applications apart by at least 20–30 minutes if used on overlapping zones like the hairline.
Suited to all hair types — straight, wavy, curly, and coily — and all scalp types. It performs especially well for oily, combination, and acne-prone scalps thanks to its lightweight, non-comedogenic, silicone-free base. Very dry scalps may want to pair it with a hydrating scalp oil on alternate nights.
Expect reduced shedding in 4–6 weeks, new baby hairs along the hairline and crown by 8–12 weeks, and visibly denser overall appearance by 4–6 months. Results build gradually and require daily use. The Ordinary recommends a minimum 3-month trial before judging efficacy.
Apply after shampooing and conditioning, once your scalp is clean and dry or just damp — ideally at bedtime. It is a leave-in, so do not rinse. Massage a few drops directly into the scalp, concentrating on thinning areas, then sleep on it. You can style your hair as normal the next morning.
No. It has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients, making it safe for the hairline, forehead, and acne-prone areas.
12 months after opening (12M PAO). The amber glass bottle protects the peptides from UV degradation. Store in a cool, dry place and replace the dropper cap tightly after each use to maintain potency.
Verdict: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density is one of the most science-packed scalp serums you can buy under $25. Six clinically-studied peptide and botanical complexes — REDENSYL™, Procapil™, CAPIXYL™, BAICAPIL™, AnaGain™, and 1% caffeine — deliver the same active rationale as prestige brands at roughly one-third of the price per ml. It will not replace minoxidil or finasteride for advanced pattern baldness, but for mild-to-moderate thinning, shedding, postpartum or stress-related hair loss, it is a best-in-class non-prescription starting point. Be patient: real results take 8–12 weeks of daily use.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Caffeine
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Irritation
|